Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh) [India], March 12 (ANI): Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh on Wednesday condemned the previous government's actions against teachers, alleging that false cases were filed against those who stood up for their rights. He pledged that the current government would thoroughly review and dismiss these cases.

Speaking in the Assembly today, Lokesh also criticized the previous YSRCP's government for its 'cruel history' of forcing teachers to stand guard outside liquor shops, calling it a clear sign of neglect towards the education sector.

'In the previous government, false cases were filed against teachers who fought for their rights. Our government will review all those cases and ensure they are dismissed. The previous government has a cruel history of deploying teachers to stand guard in front of liquor shops,' the Andhra Pradesh Minister said.

Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu met Union Minister for Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar on March 6 to discuss the advancement of the Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada Metro Rail projects.

These projects are crucial for reducing traffic congestion, fostering economic growth, and improving urban mobility in Andhra Pradesh.

During the meeting, the Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need to expedite approvals and secure central support. He submitted a detailed note outlining the significance of these projects in enhancing infrastructure and addressing urbanization challenges.

He also highlighted the disparity, noting that Hyderabad's Metro Rail was approved before bifurcation, while Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada's projects remain pending.

Visakhapatnam, a key industrial hub, faces increasing traffic congestion. With the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport set to be operational by June 2026, integrating the Metro corridor with national highways is critical. The first phase aims to connect major urban hubs, with an extension planned to the airport.

As the gateway to Amaravati, Vijayawada's Metro system is essential for strengthening regional connectivity and supporting economic growth. The Chief Minister urged the prioritization of the project to meet the city's growing transportation needs. (ANI)